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< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment < Back January 2018 Artist of the Month Samantha Post Samantha Post, daughter of Molly and Brian Post was named January artist of the month at Royalton High School. Post’s favorite hobby is painting and drawing. She has spent a large part of high school in the art room taking art classes. "I decided to paint this painting because it’s a movie that I like, and I thought the cover art of it was interesting." stated Post. "I wanted to paint something that I could take my time on and learn new techniques. I can say I definitely learned quite a bit, like how the lighting on neon signs would be painted, for example. I’ve also never spent this much time on a painting before, which tested my patience, but I think the time was well worth it and I am pretty happy with how it turned out. Art is my biggest hobby. I spend a lot of my free time doing something that has to do with art including drawing, painting, embroidery, photoshop, etc. When I graduate, I will definitely miss all the time I’ve spent in the art room the most, working on projects. I plan on maintaining working on my art works because they are something that makes me feel complete." "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up," said visual arts instructor Carl Halverson. "That's a quote from Picasso that I pretty much live by when dealing with talented students like Samantha Post. It's the process of learning that she refers to as making her feel "complete". And once you stop learning, whether you are eighteen or eighty, you grow old at an accelerated pace. For students like Samantha, art classes are a way to express themselves in their own way. Without these means of expression, some of these students feel that have no voice or opinion worth listening to. Her tile painting is not just technically superior to most work, it's a movie clip of a place that she may feel she needs to be part of, far away from where she lives right now. In the RHS art room, these students learn valuable lessons about everything from discipline to compassion; from accepting people for who they are, while be accepted for just being themselves. And through it all, these differences are all worthy and help the young person become who they want to be, rather than what someone else wants them to be. Be Yourself Sam, 'cause you are the best you that this world will ever see."

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment October 2024 Student of the Month Addison Schoenrock Addison is the daughter of Jeff and Amy. As graduation looms, Addison takes a moment to reflect on her high school experience and the lessons learned from family, teachers, and extracurricular activities. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder to savor every moment and seize every opportunity. Addison credits her family for being her greatest cheerleaders. "My family is incredibly supportive, attending all my events and encouraging me every step of the way," Addison said. “Growing up as the third of four sisters, teamwork and perseverance were instilled at an early age. Together, the family enjoys playing games, camping, and participating in outdoor activities.” When Addison was asked about some of her favorite classes in school, she had this to say, “English class during sophomore year stands out as a highlight. With the engaging Mr. Koenig at the helm, the class began each day with a trivia game that energized students. I love reading and writing, so this class was naturally enjoyable, but Mr. Koenig made it exceptional," When it comes to favorite teachers, Mrs. Noerenberg holds a special place in Addison’s heart. "She recently completed her master’s degree while balancing her roles as a mom and teacher, which inspires me to work hard," Addison noted. “Mrs. Noerenberg’s approachable nature and hands-on teaching style made her Chemistry class a standout.” Addison’s high school experience has been enriched by active participation in basketball, volleyball, YES Club, Knowledge Bowl, Student Council, Minnesota Honor Society, and Spanish Club. "My favorite part of these activities is meeting new people," she said. “Each group brought unique opportunities for growth and connection.” Outside of school, Addison’s church youth group has been a significant source of joy and inspiration. “Initially joining because of my sisters, I stayed because of the friendships, games, and faith-building experiences it provided.” Addison said. When asked about her favorite memories from high school, Addison had this to say, “One cherished memory involves playing varsity basketball alongside my three sisters. Towards the end of a during my oldest sister Autumn’s senior year of varsity, Autumn, my second oldest sister Ava and my younger sister Alise and myself were all on the court at the same time. We made up four of the five players on the court. It’s a memory I’ll always be proud of," they said. Another favorite tradition of Addison is Christmas Week, where, as a member of the Student Council, she helped plan activities and dress-up days to spread holiday cheer. "There’s nothing better than spending the last day before break making cookies or enjoying festive activities”, she said. While still deciding on a college, Addison however is set on a major she would like to pursue and that is in communications with aspirations of becoming a social media manager. "In 10 years, I hope to work with a large account, like a sports team or beauty line, managing their social media behind the scenes," she shared. Looking back on her own journey, Addison’s advice to incoming freshmen is simple yet profound: "Savor each moment, the good and the bad. Time flies, so don’t take anything for granted." Addison’s story is a celebration of family, friendship, and determination, offering an inspiring blueprint for others to follow as they navigate their high school years and beyond.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment May 2021 Student of the Month Amanda Waletski Royalton High School is proud to announce that Amanda Waletski was selected as Student of the Month for May. Amanda is the daughter of Dave and Judy and sister of Allyson. Amanda’s family has been her biggest support system and has helped her grow and learn, “My family has taught me to work hard and appreciate the small things. I love spending days on the boat with my mom, dad, sister, and cousins during the summer. My family is always there to encourage me whether it is a sporting event, school work, or even the little things that come up day to day.” Outside of school Amanda works at Jordie’s Trail Side Café in Bowlus, she enjoys water skiing, snowmobiling, walking and playing with her dogs; Maggie and Lucy and also volunteers at her church. At Royalton High School Amanda participated in volleyball, basketball, Student Council, Minnesota Honors Society and keeps stats for the softball team. Looking at all of her activities, Amanda says volleyball and basketball have been the most impactful, “ Basketball and volleyball have allowed me to meet new people that have become close friends. Sports have also taught me skills such as time management, commitment and teamwork.” “I’ve really enjoyed my time teaching and coaching Amanda these past 4 years. She is such a joyful person and helpful person, no matter the situation Amanda was going to lighten the mood or do whatever she could to help. I would also say she’s one of the toughest people I know, during her Freshman year, she missed the second half of the basketball season because of a leg injury, but she still stayed involved and worked her way back to playing again the following year. Then during one of our summer tournaments, she broke her jaw, but that didn’t deter her, she came back and played just as hard. Then this past season in basketball, while Amanda isn’t the biggest person, she wasn’t afraid of taking on girls that were much bigger and she would always go 100%. It was great to have her on our team and as one of our captains. I’m really excited to see what’s instore for her in the years to come!.”- Head Girls Basketball Coach and Social Studies Teacher Brad Baumann. Looking at her academics Amanda believes her English teacher Ms. Menden has played a large role, “My favorite teacher is Ms. Menden. She cares about us as students but also as individuals. Her classes have taught me many valuable lessons I will use in my future. Ms. Menden always has a positive attitude and encourages me to always work hard to do my best.” Amanda’s favorite high school memory came during this past basketball season, “My favorite memory from high school is when our basketball team upset Holdingford in the playoffs this year. My team worked really hard and I was proud to be a part of it.” Next year Amanda plans to attend North Dakota State University while she is not a 100% sure what she wants to major in, one possibility is drafting or construction management. In 10 years, Amanda would like to be living somewhere near the Royalton/Bowlus area so she’s close to family. She’s hoping to have a steady job in her career field, she would like to foster dogs and also do some traveling around the world. Amanda’s advice to high school freshmen is short but sweet “become involved in your school and attend events and sporting games because high school goes faster than you think.!”

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< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment December 2025 Student of the Month Cody Bieniek Success in high school is often measured by grades or trophies, but for Cody, it is measured by the strength of one’s connections and the willingness to embrace a challenge. From the quiet waters of a local fishing hole to the historic streets of Spain, Cody has made the most of every opportunity, guided by a simple philosophy: work hard and stay grounded in family. At the heart of Cody’s success is a supportive family. "My family has taught me to work hard for my goals," he shares. Whether it’s competing in summer yard games or spending a morning fishing out in the boat, these moments have provided the confidence necessary to excel. "I am very grateful for their full encouragement; they give me the confidence I need to succeed." That sense of grounded-ness is further reflected in his advice to incoming freshmen, which includes a favorite scripture: "Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock" (Isaiah 26:4). While many students shy away from heavy workloads, Cody leaned into the rigor of Composition I and II with Ms. Menden. Though the class was demanding, the reward was worth the effort. "The class challenged me to work hard while teaching me valuable skills for my future," he noted, recommending the course to others for the "fun of challenging oneself to write some of the best essays of their life." In the shop wing, Mr. Skwira has also played a pivotal role. Known for his kind and light-hearted nature, Mr. Skwira has mentored Cody through Woods, Welding, and the YES Club. "He has pushed me to pick up leadership roles and explore new areas of my life," Cody said, crediting the teacher with helping shape the person he is today. Cody’s list of school involvements is as long as it is diverse, spanning academics, athletics, and service: Athletics: Cross Country, Track, Fishing League, and Trap Shooting. Clubs: Minnesota Honor Society, YES Club, Spanish Club, Robotics, Prom Committee, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Of all these, Cross Country stands out as the most impactful. "The sport itself is both physically and mentally challenging, but the biggest aspect is the team," he explained. "The team has always been a family... the joy and laughter they have given me are amazing." Last summer, Cody’s world expanded during a Spanish III trip to Spain. From surfing and volcano stargazing to the novelty of having chocolate for breakfast, the trip offered a masterclass in culture and language that went far beyond the classroom. "The trip as a whole impacted my view of the world," he says. Looking ahead, the future is focused on numbers and service. Driven by an interest in math and statistics, Cody plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. In ten years, he sees himself working in a finance career where he can benefit others through investments, ultimately creating a stable and productive lifestyle. When asked what advice he would give to the Class of 2029, Cody offered three practical tips: Don't mess with Brody (Brother). Stay on top of your work: "Don't push off homework deadlines and simply pay attention." Keep the faith.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment September 2023 Student of the Month Nate Moga Royalton High School is delighted to announce Nate Moga as the Student of the Month for September. Nate has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to both academic excellence and community engagement during his time at Royalton High School. Nate is the son of Tracy Moga. Nate believes that his family has been a guiding light. “My mother's unwavering support and belief in me have taught me the power of a mother's love and the strength that comes from within. My sisters, Alli and Meagan, have been my role models, pushing me to work hard and become the person I am today. With their encouragement, I've learned that every challenge can be faced with a hug and a determined spirit.” In school one of Nate’s favorite classes was his 11th-grade physics class, taught by Heidi Noerenberg. When asked why he enjoyed the class, Nate had this to say, “The class was not just a learning experience; it was a journey through challenging yet engaging material. What made it memorable was the diverse group of classmates who, despite their differences, came together in an environment that allowed growth and camaraderie. I would recommend this class to others because it taught me that learning is not just about textbooks; it's about exploration, collaboration, and the joy of discovery.” When asked if he had any other classes or teachers that had an impact on him, one other teacher came to his mind. “Mr. Jeff Schoenrock, my math teacher, was more than an educator; he was a mentor. His classroom was a space where learning was intertwined with meaningful relationships. Mr. Schoenrock's ability to relate to his students and his effective teaching methods made every moment in class important. He inspired me not only academically but also to be a compassionate and understanding individual.” Nate has been involved in many activities at Royalton High School and believes they helped shaped who he is today, “Participating in the Royalton High School Drama club was transformative. Acting became a liberating experience, teaching me public speaking skills and resourcefulness. It also allowed me to form lifelong friendships and unite my community through the power of storytelling. Similarly, my involvement in the Competitive Speech team and Knowledge Bowl broadened my horizons, enhancing my speaking and critical thinking skills.” Outside of school Nate has had one experience that sticks out, “Being a part of The Little Falls Theater Company community theater organization provided unique experiences, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. It taught me resilience and the importance of adaptability. These experiences reinforced my love for theater and community engagement, shaping my identity beyond the classroom.” As for Nate’s favorite high school memory, he said it happened in gym class, “My favorite high school memory was the day my friend accidentally set off the fire alarm during our gym class volleyball game. The unexpected event, forcing us into the snowy outdoors, created a funny and unforgettable moment that bonded us as friends and reminded us of the joy in unexpected situations.” Nate also really enjoyed Speech competitions as well. “Competing in speech events, especially in the duo category with my partner Stella Hagen, stands out as one of my best experiences. It allowed me to combine my competitive spirit with my passion for speech, fostering friendships and skills that will stay with me for life.” When Nate was asked what he plans to do after he graduates and where he thinks he’ll be 10 years down the road, here is what he said, “After graduation, I am excited to attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to pursue a degree in education and theater. My goal is to become a role model for young people, helping them embrace their true selves. I chose this path because I believe in the transformative power of education and the arts in shaping compassionate and confident individuals. Then in 10 years, I envision myself in the bustling city, holding a High School Administration position and, hopefully, with a corgi by my side. My long-term plan is to create a safe and inclusive environment for students, fostering creativity and acceptance. Being a role model for young people who might be afraid of being who they are is a dream I am determined to fulfill.” Lastly, Nate’s advice for current freshmen is, “Embrace your authenticity. High school is a journey of self-discovery, and the more genuine you are, the more successful and fulfilled you will be, not just in high school but in life. Embrace your uniqueness, be kind to yourself, and never shy away from exploring your passions. Remember, every step you take towards being your true self is a step towards success.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment January 2022 Student of the Month Aaron Popp Royalton High School is proud to announce that Aaron Popp was selected as Student of the Month for January. Aaron is the son of Lawrence and Renee. Aaron believes his hard work ethic comes from his family, “I live on a farm, so at a young age I had to develop a hard work ethic. I watched my mother (Renee) and Father (Lawrence) work hard each and every day to run our family farm, so I knew I had to work as hard as they did if I wanted to succeed in life. My mother encouraged me to get good grades and do good throughout my entire school career. I grew up with two brothers and two sisters so I developed a competitive drive, in life. They taught me to always try to be the best at everything you do. I love to watch football on Sundays in the fall with my family. I love to play sports with my brothers during the summer. I love just spending quality time with each other.” When it comes to his classes Aaron says his favorite class was American History. “I loved learning about American history. I especially liked learning about the world wars. World War 2 was the thing I liked to learn about the most. I enjoyed learning about old military leaders, and the bravery and leadership they showed. As for a favorite teacher in high school Aaron says there are 3 that come to mind, “My favorite teachers are Mr. Snyder, Mr. Schaa, and Mrs. Gerads. Mr. Snyder taught my favorite class American History. Mr. Schaa taught me that if you work hard on things you will get rewarded for it. Mrs. Gerads helped me figure out that I want to pursue a career in the science field after high school. They all inspired me to do my absolute best in life.” Aaron’s favorite high school memory took place his junior year, “during my gym class in 11th grade, we were in our bike riding unit and behind the high school there is this big hill in the forest that is steep and hard to bike across unless you build up a lot of speed and momentum. So, my gym teacher went first and biked across the hill without breaking a sweat. I then watched a couple of my fellow classmates do the same, when it came to my turn, I built up a lot of speed and started to climb the hill, and then I got to the top and my chain fell off. I fell off the bike and landed on the ground. One of my friends was riding behind me and was building up speed to climb the hill, so they could not stop fast enough, and ended up running into me and flipped his bike. He went flying into the air. It was painful and funny at the same time.” The best activity Aaron says he was involved with was this past fall during homecoming, “The best event I was involved in had to be my senior year homecoming Olympics. This stands out because it was finally the year my grade won. For years I watched other grades beat us and think that they are the best, but this year was finally our time to prove we are the best grade and we were because we won. I watched my fellow classmates compete in games like musical chairs and a food eating contest. I got to participate in the annual tug of war competition which my grade did not win, but it was still really fun to be involved and to watch all of us come together and work together.” Next year Aaron plans on attending St. Cloud State University, where he will pursue a degree in nursing and plans to become a registered nurse and possibly a doctor. When asked what he believes his life will look like in 10 years this was Aaron’s response, “I see myself being a nurse in a hospital helping people with their medical issues. Hopefully living in a place warmer than Minnesota. I see myself watching my niece grow up and hopefully develop my intelligence.” When it comes to advice for high school freshmen Aaron had this to say, “don’t let yourself fall behind in your classes, if you put in the effort you will get rewarded, the better grades you get in HS, the more likely you are to succeed in the future, and lastly listen to your teachers even when you don’t want to, because they are there to help you.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment September 2020 Student of the Month Anna Meemken Royalton High School is proud to announce that Anna Meemken was selected as Student of the Month for September. Anna is the daughter of Adam and Linda. Anna has two younger brothers that attend Royalton with her, Adam, Jr. a freshman and David an eighth grader. Anna believes her family has played a large role in her life when it comes to many things. “My family has taught me the importance of accepting others for who they are and not judging those who have not had the same opportunities in life and to love others, even if I do not agree with them. They have always encouraged me to pursue my interests and to look at things in a different perspective when things go wrong and were a huge part of choosing where I plan on continuing my education.” Outside of school Anna is involved in the Loyal Royals 4-H club, where she has been president of the club for 2 years and vice president for 2 years. Anna is also involved in with her church where she has taken part in the church community annual mission trip to Chicago. “The whole point of a mission trip is to help others; it has given me perspective into the needs of others not only in our own communities but across the nation” says Anna. “It has also helped me gain connections to those in the area, in which I still communicate with today.” At Royalton High School, Anna is involved in many activities. She is active in volleyball, BPA, Student Council, Minnesota Honors Society, and Y.E.S. Club. Anna believes being a member of the volleyball team has given her valuable insight into teamwork and leadership. Through BPA she had the opportunity to travel to California for a National Competition, which she says sparked her interest in the world of business and opened her eyes to greater opportunities. By being a member of Student Council, Minnesota Honors Society and Y.E.S Club, Anna believes she has improved her multitasking skills and has learned to recognize community needs and ways to serve others. For example, she has participated in habitat restoration, water quality testing, and is currently working on designing energy efficient electrical bikes. When it comes to her classes Anna says her favorite class was probably College Algebra. “I have always enjoyed mathematics and it has always come easy to me. I would suggest College Algebra because it gives you college credits while being introduced to college level algebra.” Royalton High School Mathematics teacher Jeff Schoenrock says Anna is not just a great student but she is also willing to help her fellow students. “Anna has always done a great job in any of the math classes I have had her in. She is currently taking College Credit Precalculus and is excelling,” Schoenrock says “Anna has always been a pleasure to have in class and she works well with others. Many times, other students will go to Anna for clarification on how to do homework assignments” Anna’s favorite teacher in high school was Mara Jacobson. Anna said, “Mrs. Jacobson was my favorite teacher because she introduced me to the world of business. She convinced me to join Business Professionals of America (BPA) which really set me on the path of business” Next year Annal will be attending Winona State University where her plan is to major in finance and minor in business management and in 10 years, Anna hopes to be settled into her career choice and possibly be focusing on a family. Some of Anna’s favorites memories in high school have been on the road with friends and in 10th grade Geography class, “One of my favorite memories was when a carload of students, including myself, went to return our college textbooks to the CLC campus. As we were exiting the parking lot our driver, after being warned multiple times, still turned into oncoming traffic on a one-way street. Thankfully there was no accident and everyone returned home safely,” said Anna. “One of my favorite school projects was in Geography in 10th grade when my friend Kaelee Yourczek and I attempted to make beef empanadas and almost burned ourselves testing to see if the oil was hot enough to fry them. They turned out to be delicious.” Anna’s advice to high school freshmen is, “My advice to any incoming freshman is to challenge yourselves to see things from others perspectives and if you plan on attending college after high school take advantage of the college classes offered by the school. I also encourage you to get involved in your community to open your eyes to new experiences.”

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< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment December 2022 Student of the Month Ashley Knettel Ashley is the daughter of Paul and Alissa Knettel. Ashley says her parents have played a large role in her life and has made her who she is, “My parents have always encouraged me to try my best at anything I accomplish, and they’ll be proud of me no matter what. My parents remind me of this refresher on the daily, which I truly believe is what fuels me to try my best every day. With my family, I enjoy having family dinners, hanging out at our cabin, and sitting down to complete a puzzle with one another.” At Royalton High School, Ashley is involved in a variety of activities, multiple sports to numerous clubs and groups and has enjoyed many of them. “At school I am involved in volleyball, softball, speech, Minnesota Honors Society, and YES Club. I enjoy volleyball and softball because I love the exciting feeling of being a part of a great play and cheering on my teammates when they do the same. I also enjoy speech because it has pushed me out of my comfort zone to try a new activity while having fun and making memories with my teammates. I enjoy the Minnesota Honors Society because I am able to make a difference in the community with my closest friends by running our school’s blood drive and participating in our City-Wide Cleanup. Lastly, I enjoy YES Club, because I have been able to participate in many environmentally friendly projects to better the Earth and our school.” When it comes to her classes Ashley says her favorite class was College Human Biology. “My favorite high school class I’ve ever taken is CIS Human Biology. I have always had a fascination with human anatomy and this course dives very deep into such complex information that I find very interesting. This class stands out to me as a student because I have the opportunity to dissect pig fetuses and sheep hearts to strengthen my learning about biological anatomy. I would suggest other students to take this class if you’re interested in pursuing an occupation in medical science, because you will retain a great deal of valuable information that will stick with you! As for a favorite teacher in high school Ashley says Ms. Alyssa Gerads rises to the top of her list “My favorite teacher throughout high school years has been Mrs. Gerads. Not only is Mrs. Gerads a very intelligent and organized teacher, she also radiates such positive energy to her students with her bubbly and friendly personality. Mrs. Gerads has made my biology and CIS human biology courses important to me because she exposed my love to learn about science with her great teaching methods. Mrs. Gerads inspires me because she obtained her master’s degree at such a young age, which has made me want to work as hard as her to acquire my own someday.” When asked what her favorite high school memory was, she had one that stands above all others and that was 2022 Prom. “My favorite high school memory was definitely my junior prom. My junior prom was such a blast because I had a great date and best friends who also love to sing and dance to our favorite songs and we had so much fun while doing it. I can proudly say the missing voice and sore muscles from singing and dancing all night long was definitely worth it. Besides that, the dinner was delicious and the whole day had a great vibe.” Ashely’s best event/activity she was involved in that stood at Royalton High school has been speech, “The activity that stands out the most to me that I am involved in is speech. Speech has pushed me out of my comfort zone immensely with performing and talking in front of crowds and judges. After my first season of speech last year, I believe I am more comfortable with presenting in front of a classroom, my social skills have greatly improved, and I have made incredible friendships with my teammates and speakers from other schools as well.” When asked what she plans to do next year and where she sees herself in 10 years, Ashley had this to say “I plan to further my education at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities to study nutrition. After earning my Bachelor of Science degree, my dream is to attend school once again to obtain my master’s degree to become a registered dietitian. Over the past few years, nutrition has sparked my interest because I’ve realized how important it is to consume the right foods to properly fuel your body and prevent diseases. In 10 years, I hope that I reached all my academic goals, to be settled down, and to have an occupation I thoroughly enjoy. These goals are important to me because if I succeed in these goals, I know I will have a very successful and happy life ahead of me.” Finally, Ashley’s advice to high school freshmen is, “Slow down, you're doing fine, you can’t be everything you want to be before your time.” This advice is actually a lyric from Billy Joel’s “Vienna”. When life and school become too much to handle some days, I believe it’s important to remind ourselves to destress by taking life day-by-day, and how success doesn't come easy, take your time and it will all be worth it in the end.

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment April 2024 Student of Month Claire Prokott Claire is the daughter of Doug and Kari Prokott. When talking about the impact of her family Claire said she has especially learned a lot from her parents, “My family has taught me many valuable lessons in life, especially my parents, Doug and Kari. My parents have taught me how to be kind toward other people. Although they might not notice, I see and observe how they treat others with kindness and generosity and I hope to persevere and continue to do the same. My mom and dad, along with every single one of my aunts and uncles, have always encouraged me and lifted me up when I thought I had hit rock bottom. I have begun to see what life throws at you, and my entire family has been there for me through it all. If I ever need anything, I know that every one of them is always willing a helping hand. My whole family has always has my back no matter where I was in life. They have taught me that family is everything and I will be forever grateful for them. My two sisters, Lydia and Ella, have always been so supportive of me for everything I have accomplished in life so far. They have also taught me how to love others. All siblings bicker at times, but my sisters have made me realize that being a supportive and loving human being, is one of the most valuable traits to have.” Looking over the course of her schooling, Claire’s favorite class was College Human Biology, “My favorite class was College Human Biology with Mrs. Gerads. I enjoyed this class because a person really got deep into what the human body truly does and how it functions. It was mind-blowing to see what little things that your body has to do to keep functioning properly. I would definitely recommend this class to other students. Especially if you enjoy the human body or want to learn more about it. You get to do amazing labs to help you have a better understanding of the body. Along with all of that, you’ll also get an amazing teacher to help you through it all.” As for Claire’s favorite teacher, she really enjoyed Ms. Sheri Menden, “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Menden (Sheri Menden). Mrs. Menden kept me on my toes my junior year when I took College Composition I & II. Although the class was more on the difficult side, she will be a teacher I will always remember. She always helped me out in her class specifically, but she was always willing to help with other classes as well. She would take time out of her lunch and after school hours to help me perfect my essays. She also taught me how to improve my speaking skills. Before her class, I was a nervous public speaker, but after her class, I am able to speak and I will receive compliments about how I do not use “like” or “uhm” while I speak. All in all, Mrs. Menden was another grandma to me. She has the sweetest heart and the kindest soul that I aspire to have.” When looking at Claire’s time in school, she was involved in a variety of activities. “As for sports, I participated in volleyball, basketball, and track. I loved volleyball and basketball because they are team sports. You get to work together to achieve goals and celebrate together. As for track and field, I love it because it is more of an individual sport. You work together with relay teams, but you also work to compete against yourself to gain better measurements or times. Outside of athletics, I joined the spring musical, Beauty and the Beast, to do mic tech my senior year. Being a part of a school play was part of my bucket list before I graduated high school and I could not be more happy that I did it. The friendships and bonds that are created through the drama club are immaculate and irreplaceable. Being a part of the musical is something that I will hang onto and never forget. I recently joined my school’s jazz band this past year as well. We meet once a week to practice various songs that we perform to the community, judges, etc. Being in jazz band has taught me that if you want to get better at something, you have to put in work. Everyone in jazz band takes time out of their Tuesday mornings to get better and learn how to play different types of songs. All in all, I enjoy working with everyone to put together a piece of music to make it sound beautiful. The three clubs that I am a part of are Minnesota’s Honor Society, Spanish Club, and YES! (Youth Eco Solutions) Club. In MHS, we get to help others in our community. We will help with local blood drives, city-wide cleanups, etc. I am so thankful to be a part of MHS because I get to help others in our community that need it. For YES and the Spanish club, I am an officer in both and it has taught me great leadership skills. Along with being a leader for others, I gained closeness to others around me. When you are in a club, you are all there for a reason, to bond over something. Whether it is planting flowers in a prairie for YES Club or snacking on Colombian snacks in Spanish Club. I feel the most beneficial activity that I have done in school is track and field. We have never had a track, so we learn how to work extra hard to achieve our goals. Being a part of Royalton track and field is like being a part of a family. This is something that will be hard to let go of, but I will cherish the memories for the rest of my life.” Claire still has time to enjoy activities outside of school as well, “Outside of school activities, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. One thing that my family and I love doing together in the summer is going on the bike trails with our electric bikes. We enjoy making the 7-mile trek to BOHO in Holdingford, MN. We will start near Bowlus and make our way to BOHO to get a sweet treat and then head back. One other thing we really enjoy doing in the summer is camping. We plan weekend camping trips to spend time together. My family and I sit by the water, snack, and enjoy each other’s company. As for my friends, my favorite thing to do with them is go on coffee runs. My two friends, Arianne and Baley, and I will head to the nearest Starbucks to get ourselves a nice drink to start the day. Although our bank account might not agree with our purchases, it makes for some good memories. I will truly enjoy doing anything with the people I love.” Claire’s favorite high school memory took place this past fall during Homecoming, “My favorite high school memory is getting the opportunity to be Homecoming queen. Words cannot describe how thankful I was to be the queen. I am so grateful for everyone who thought I deserved to be it. When the drumroll started, I was going to be happy for any of my friends because each and every one deserved it. When the drumroll stopped and the applause started, I realized that the crown was set on my head. I turned to see all of my friends smiling at me with the biggest grin on their faces. I’m sure my face got a little red, but I could not stop smiling. Afterwards, I got so many genuine hugs and compliments from everyone around me, it made my heart so happy. After coronation, all of the candidates went out to eat at Boulder Tap House in St. Cloud and the girls headed to Cherry Berry after the meal for a sweet treat. I had so much fun that night with everyone. A night that was filled with so many memories and something I will never forget.” Claire was also involved in an activity that was very memorable, “The best event that I have ever been a part of was making it to and placing 5th at the State Track and Field Meet my junior year. My junior year I had the amazing opportunity to run the 4x1 in the State Meet at STMA. Something that made my experience even better, was that I got to run it with my younger sister, Lydia. I ran the first leg and she finished with running the last leg. My team and I worked our tails off last season. We would go to different tracks on our own time to practice on a real track, worked endlessly on perfecting our handoffs, and so much more little techniques. Everyone put in time and effort because we knew we could go far if we wanted to. We got to the first day of the state meet, and we did not have a tent. We had to sit behind some bleachers so the scorching heat would not get to us. The heat did not stop us, we practiced our handoffs, said a prayer before our race, and ended up PR’ing by almost a whole second! We got second in our heat moving us up to finals the next day. We went out to dinner that night to celebrate and the next day we were back at STMA to run our tails off again. When I handed off to the second leg, all I could watch was my sister, Lydia, patiently waiting for the 3rd leg to hand off to her. As Lydia received the baton, I started sprinting back to the finish line to watch her cross. As she was passing people, I was screaming my lungs out getting so excited. We ended up finishing 5th and I could not have been prouder of my teammates. They worked so hard to get where they were. I hope this year I am able to make it to the State Meet again to create another memory like this one.” Next year Claire will be heading off to the College of St. Benedict to pursue a degree in nursing and when asked where she sees herself 10 years from now, here is what Claire had to say, “After college I hope to be an ICU or NICU nurse for a couple years. After I get experience in that specific field, I hope to use my previous knowledge that I gained to become a flight nurse. Outside of my career, I hope to be married and have a family of my own living in the country. I cannot wait to see where I am and what I have accomplished in 10 years.” Finally, Claire’s advice for freshmen is, “Working hard is a big part of being successful in high school. However, making time for yourself is even more important. I learned that if you do not take time for yourself, you’re going to lose focus on your schoolwork. Being successful in school does not mean that you have to be involved in every club/activity. You have to pick your things that you enjoy and have time for. Life is too short, do the things you enjoy, while also working hard to achieve your goals. One other thing to remember is to be nice to other people. Having a genuine heart and good work ethic makes school easier. If you’re kind to others, they will be nice to you, especially teachers. The kinder you are to teachers and other faculty members, the more willing they are going to be to lend a helping hand. Being a kind-hearted and thoughtful person will not only be helpful in high school, but it will take you far in life.”

< Middle/High School Academics District Calendar Guidance Office Media Center New Enrollment March 2025 Student of the Month Marisa Solland A dedicated, compassionate, and hardworking student, Marisa exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and academic excellence both inside and outside the classroom. Marisa credits her family as the foundation of her strong character and values. Through their guidance, she has grown in her faith, gained confidence in herself, and learned the importance of hard work, respect, and community service. Some of her favorite moments with her family include attending church events, going out to eat, and enjoying movie nights. Their encouragement has helped her maintain strong grades and pursue her college goals with determination. In the classroom, Culinary Prep with Mrs. Liddane stands out as Marisa’s favorite class. She especially enjoyed helping prepare the Veterans Day breakfast—an event that has become a cherished tradition at Royalton. She recommends the class to others because of the valuable life skills it teaches, such as cooking and preparing meals independently. When asked about her favorite teacher, Marisa names Mrs. Ramstad, whose dedication to students and thoughtful teaching style left a lasting impression. Mrs. Ramstad’s willingness to provide extra support and make time for every student has inspired Marisa to emulate that kind of care and commitment in her future career as an educator. Marisa is actively involved in FFA and concert choir. Through FFA, which she joined in eighth grade, she’s developed leadership, teamwork, and perseverance while participating in events, contests, and projects that promote agricultural education. As a member of the concert choir since ninth grade, Marisa has grown musically and socially while spreading joy through performances and competitions. Beyond school, Marisa continues her service-oriented spirit in the community. She volunteers at the Benton County Fair FFA Barnyard, Platte River Days FFA Petting Zoo, and at her church, helping with breakfasts, Mass, and fundraisers. She also assists at the Royalton American Legion Fish Fry and sings as a first soprano in the Youth Chorale of Central Minnesota's Con Brio group. These experiences have helped Marisa grow in responsibility, communication, adaptability, and self-confidence. One of her most memorable high school moments was teaming up with her friend Nevaeh during Survivor Week. Together, they used teamwork and quick thinking to win a challenging memory game for their grade—an achievement that Marisa remembers as a highlight of collaboration and spirit. Her favorite activity? Volunteering at the Benton County Fair FFA Barnyard. Between caring for animals and connecting with visitors, Marisa found joy in learning, teaching, and handling the unexpected—all while having fun in a wonderfully chaotic environment. Looking ahead, Marisa has been accepted to St. Cloud Technical and Community College to pursue an A.A. degree in Elementary Education, with plans to transfer to St. Cloud State University for her B.S. and a minor in Special Education. Her passion for teaching stems from her own educational journey: after surviving cancer during kindergarten through second grade, her elementary teachers at Pleasantview helped her catch up and thrive—a legacy she hopes to pass on to her future students. In ten years, Marisa sees herself teaching in central Minnesota, carrying forward the values and support she received as a child. Her long-term goal is to help every student believe in their potential and succeed, no matter their circumstances. Her advice to high school freshmen is clear and heartfelt: “Don’t wait to get involved—join groups when you feel the spark. Work hard for your grades; they won’t be handed to you. And always remember: your teachers want to see you succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and grow.”